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UG

Ulrich Gall

260 discoveries

Communal Cat House in Lima's Parque Kennedy

The large, multi-level structure with a corrugated red roof you've discovered is a specialized communal cat house, a charming and highly unusual feature of Lima's Parque Kennedy, also known as Miraflores Central Park. This isn't just a quirky decoration; it’s a fully functional shelter for the park's famously large and well-cared-for stray cat population. Parque Kennedy is renowned throughout Lima for its hundreds of resident felines, who are practically celebrities in their own right. These cats are not simply tolerated; they are an integral part of the park's identity. Local volunteers and even some municipal staff take on the care of these animals, providing food, water, and even veterinary attention. Throughout the park, you’ll find multiple cat houses like this one, offering shelter, especially during cooler nights or rainy weather. The little paw print decals on the cat house add to its whimsical and welcoming appearance. Next to the houses, you'll often see bowls with food and water provided by the community. This unique approach to managing a stray cat population highlights a deep connection between the community and its animal residents, creating a distinctive and endearing atmosphere in an otherwise bustling urban park. It's a testament to local compassion and a draw for both residents and tourists who come to interact with the friendly felines. Adorning the wall visible in the background is a striking piece of public art, a mural depicting a child's face and what appears to be a large animal, possibly a feline or a similar creature, emerging from the shadows. Such murals are common in many urban areas around the world, but in Miraflores, they often reflect themes of local culture, community, or even the natural world, sometimes echoing the presence of the park's beloved cats in a more abstract way. Above the street, you can also spot the sign for "RED DOG HOSTEL," a popular accommodation for travelers, and a white van with "473" on it, likely a route number for a public transport or utility vehicle.